Northern Illinois Dirt Late Model racer Victor Benedetto died this morning after a month-long battle with Covid-19 and assorted health issues that damaged his lungs beyond repair.

The 36-year-old Marengo, Ill., driver's death was reported by his wife Brittany, who provided Facebook updates of his failing health since he was admitted to the hospital Nov. 16. He was placed on a ventilator Nov. 26 and also battled pneumonia, a bacterial infection and damaged diaphragm.

Benedetto, who also operated Superior Spring Smasher along with his wife, was a competitor on the Wabam Dirt Kings Tour and DIRTcar-sanctioned events in northern Illinois over the past five seasons. He posted a ninth-place finish in Sept. 10's Dirt Kings event at Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill.

Arrangements are incomplete, but survivors include his wife and two children. A GoFundMe account was established to assist the family financially.